THE United States of America has provided $US4.9million ($F11.1million) to the Republic of Fiji Military Forces (RFMF).
US Secretary of Defence Lloyd Austin made the announcement in a joint news conference at the Sheraton Fiji Golf and Beach Resort in Nadi yesterday.
The $US4.9m funding is aimed at supporting Fiji’s military modernisation efforts through enhanced foreign military financing, pending congressional approval.
“We also covered the new security assistance that the United States is providing to Fiji, including $US4.9million in foreign military financing and the congressional program,” Mr Austin said.
He said a bilateral meeting with the Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka earlier yesterday saw the discussion of varied security challenges in the Pacific.
“Maritime security is essential, so I’m pleased that our first delivery of rigid inflatable boats will arrive in the next several months.
“Soon after, we’ll deliver a new boat ramp to support maritime controls over your waters. We’ll continue expanding our exercises and engagement together, including through the annual particle exercise and through your close partnership with the Nevada National Guard.”
Phone calls made to the RFMF Commander Major General Ro Jone Kalouniwai remained unanswered.
